The New Jersey Department of Education is excited to announce the second annual opportunity for local educational agencies with approved career and technical education programs to participate in the CTE Scholar Awards program, which honors exceptional CTE students across New Jersey.

This legislation, P.L. 2023,c.47, establishes an annual recognition of student achievements to highlight the importance of CTE to meet the needs of business and industry. Four criteria are outlined in the legislation for recognition.

  1. Demonstrate a high level of achievement in a CTE program of study as exemplified by course grades, industry-recognized technical assessments and teacher recommendations.
  2. Demonstrate a high level of achievement in at least three academic classes, as exemplified by course grades, end-of-course assessments and teacher recommendations.
  3. Successfully complete a college-level course or a work-based learning experience including, but not limited to, employment under a cooperative education agreement, an internship, or a work-based structured learning experience.
  4. Participate in a career and technical student organization or a community service project that demonstrates the application of career and technical skills.

The NJDOE developed several resources to support LEAs with planning and preparing for the 2024-2025 school year such as district evaluation of student eligibility for meeting criteria, the application submission process and the award program timeline. All resources and additional information can be found on the CTE Scholar Award Program webpage.

The application for district submissions will be made available in February 2025, in celebration of CTE Month. The NJDOE looks forward to honoring the remarkable achievements and accomplishments of CTE students throughout New Jersey.

Questions about the CTE Scholar Awards program can be sent to the NJDOE via email.